Community Tip - Tracking Vocals

With the support of iLok, more tips & tricks from the community. Here is one from Bernhard Penzias….

When I record layers of vocals with the same singer, I like to switch out microphones fairly often, specifically for different kinds of vocals. Say, I would record the lead vocal with a great LDC mic. if there’s time & patience, I’ll do a quick mic shoot out to find the best one for the particular singer. especially when I’ve never recorded with them before.

When it then comes to doubling, I like to use a different mic. I’ll look for one with a less pronounced hi-mid boost, for example. That way, the double track won’t stick out so much.

Then I’ll use a different mic for BGVs, and maybe another one for AdLibs, or counter phrases / answer type of tracks… For me, the trick is to keep the recordings in a good flow. I try to feel out the situation. If someone is hyper creative and very impatient, forget it. Just get the person happy. I also like to mix it up with the mic preamps. Same kind of idea…Happy recordings!

If you would like the chance to win a stormtrooper iLok, courtesy of iLok, send in tips you think no one has thought about. Please don’t just send shortcuts which are easily found elsewhere, or pull ideas from the manual; instead, be creative about your tips & tricks. Please use the Contact Us page to send us have your tips.